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Training respiratory therapists as part of a healthcare team to help diagnose, treat and manage conditions to help restore or maintain lung and breathing function. Applications due Oct. 31, 2024 Great Basin College and Renown Health are partnering to bring the first Respiratory Therapy training program to educate new healthcare professionals to meet the growing needs of the community.   With the generosity of grant funders, the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust and the Health Resources and Services Administration, Great Basin College will launch the first and only available program of its kind in support of several rural northern Nevada communities. According to project leads, the program and the trained respiratory therapists will bring great value to the community and healthcare system.  “Great Basin College is thrilled to join forces with Renown Health to launch this new program and be a critical contributor to advancing the respiratory care profession for our community,” says Interim GBC President Dr. Amber Donnelli.  The program is an accelerated 18-month program resulting in an Associate of Applied Science in Cardio-Respiratory Care Science degree. It's incredibly high-tech, uses leading-edge training equipment, and provides real-world experience to students.  In-person classes will be offered at GBC campuses in Elko and Winnemucca and at Renown Health in Reno. Applications will open this June and are due October 31, 2024. The first program courses will begin in the Spring of 2025. There are very specific prerequisites for the program and students can visit the program page for more information.“Investing in the training of new respiratory therapists is crucial to meeting Renown’s mission of providing essential services for our community,” says Brian Erling, MD, MBA, CEO & President, Renown Health. “These professionals help patients manage respiratory conditions and their expertise makes a difference in the lives of others. By equipping them with the latest knowledge and hands-on experience, we ensure that our patients receive the best possible care during their most crucial moments. Respiratory therapists are important members of the critical care team, which is why we are proud to partner with Great Basin College to establish the first training program for our region."According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the “employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow 13 percent from 2022 to 2032.” GBC sees the incredible potential for growth and has worked hard to bring this opportunity to Nevada’s health care workforce.  “This vital program will support our health care systems through innovative teaching strategies geared towards developing the highest caliber respiratory therapist,” says Jason Farnsworth, GBC Respiratory Therapy Program Director and Director of Respiratory Care Services at Renown Health. The Associate of Applied Science Cardio-Respiratory Care Science program will be offered at Great Basin College at the Elko, Winnemucca, and Reno locations and is currently in the process of seeking CoARC accreditation for a respiratory care program. However Great Basin College can provide no assurance that accreditation will be granted by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) 264 Precision Blvd, Telford, TN 37690 (817) 283-2835. Accreditation is presumed to be finalized around November 2024.      About Great Basin College Great Basin College, "The Gold Standard in the Silver State,” offers associate and baccalaureate level education in academic, career and technical fields. Welcoming over 4,000 students annually from all corners of the country, both online and at our various campuses and centers, GBC's presence extends across two time zones and spans more than 86,000 square miles throughout Nevada. A leader in rural higher education, GBC takes pride in developing students who are well-prepared to meet the demands of industry and who contribute to the success and prosperity of the local economy.     About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated health care network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,500 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Renown and Great Basin College Launch 18-month Respiratory Therapist Training Program

NFL Hall of Famer Steve Young and his wife Barb, The Beach Boys and community donors celebrate the grand opening of Sophie’s Place, a new integrative treatment space at Renown Children’s Hospital dedicated to the healing arts. (Photo Credit: David Calvert) Today marks the grand opening of Sophie’s Place at Renown Children’s Hospital which is supported by The Forever Young Foundation, founded by Barb Young and her husband NFL Hall of Famer Steve Young, and designed by Anne Marie and Kent Barton (Sophie’s parents). The Forever Young Foundation has supported the development of eight Sophie’s Places across the United States. The opening at Renown Health is the ninth Sophie’s Place location to provide music therapy to young people in children’s hospitals across the nation. Two years ago, on June 5, 2022, over 500 generous donors attended a benefit concert by The Beach Boys with front man Mike and his wife Jacquelyne Love, both Nevada residents; and special guests Steve and Barb Young, to help Renown Health Foundation raise a remarkable $1.2 million to construct the first and only Sophie’s Place in Nevada. Children's Miracle Network (CMN) Hospitals celebrity ambassador Steve Young has helped raise over $1 billion to lift up children’s hospitals around the nation. The Forever Young Foundation established Sophie’s Place in 2013 in loving memory of Sophie Barton, a young musician with a passion for helping others, who passed away in 2010. Sophie served and played her guitar at Primary Children’s Hospital in Utah. Sophie's Place was inspired by Barb Young, a close friend of the Barton family and an avid believer in the science of music therapy. Her passion and commitment were crucial in bringing this specialized care to the many pediatric patients and their families served by Renown Children’s Hospital. “At Renown, we recognize the profound impact that music can have on the healing process,” says Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO, Renown Health. “We are grateful to Steve and his wife Barb Young, the Forever Young Foundation, Mike and his wife Jacquelyne Love and The Beach Boys and hundreds of community donors for this incredible gift for the region’s only Children’s Hospital. We are excited to see, and hear, how kids will sing, play, dance and create in this new space. We will continue to create a healing environment within our hospitals to support recovery and enhance health and happiness.” Barb Young says, “Research has proven that music therapy fires the synapses to help create new neuro-pathways to replace those that have been damaged. It increases oxygen-saturation levels, alleviates pain, eases anxiety and depression, assists in fine and gross motor skill development, and so much more. We are honored to partner with Renown Children’s Hospital as we share with you the building of our newest Sophie’s Place space, a music-therapy room which will bring hope, healing and harmony to the children being treated in this special CMN Children’s Hospital.” Sophie’s Place is fully equipped with musical instruments and games for both children and music therapists to use, allowing patients and their families the opportunity to relax and socialize outside of the hospital room. The space also includes: Room for individual and group music therapy sessions Opportunities for patients to record their music Separate practice, recording and editing rooms Microphones Performance space Comfortable seating Musical memorabilia and artwork “Child and family-centered care is fundamental to all of us at Renown Children’s Hospital, which means we understand that comprehensive pediatric medicine goes beyond the clinical aspects,” says Kris Deeter, MD, MBA, FAAP, Chair of Pediatrics, UNR Med and Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children’s Hospital. “Providing our young patients and their families with therapeutic experiences goes hand in hand with the excellent care provided by our physicians, nurses and clinicians. Renown has a team of Child Life Specialists who support this holistic manner of providing care, and Sophie’s Place helps create an environment that supports treatment, recovery and well-being. Together, music and medicine can work in harmony to heal the body, mind and soul.” Steve Young shared, “through Sophie’s Place, Sophie’s heart continues to beat on.” “Sophie’s Place is an example of what happens when our community comes together to invest and imagine in all that is possible,” says Greg Walaitis, Renown Health Foundation Chief Development Officer. As a charitable, not-for-profit organization we rely on the generosity of people like Steve and Barb Young, Mike and Jacquelyne Love and The Beach Boys and the many generous donors who helped us raise the funds needed construct this new music therapy room at Renown Children’s Hospital.” For more information about supporting pediatric care at Renown Children’s Hospital, visit renown.org/Foundation. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated health care network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,500 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Sophie’s Place, An Exciting New Integrative Treatment Space Opens to Inspire Young Song Writers, Singers and Musicians at Renown Children’s Hospital

Renown Health has earned the “Best Place for Working Parents” designation for 2024 as a family-friendly workplace in Nevada.   “We are honored to be recognized as a Best Place for Working Parents, said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health. This designation reflects Renown’s commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace where our physicians, clinicians and employees can thrive professionally and personally. We understand the challenges that working parents face, and we are working to foster a more family-friendly environment. Together, we are building a People-First culture that values caring, integrity, collaboration, and excellence.” “This designation recognizes Renown Health’s commitment to supporting working parents with family-friendly policies and practices,” said Sandeep Randhawa, MS, Chief People Officer. “Our People First culture and mindset supports the well-being of Renown’s more than 7,500 exceptional physicians and employees. Our best-in-class talent management programs focus on attracting and retaining healthcare professionals; ensuring that Renown’s values are reinforced with strategic decisions aimed at empowering our employees to perform at their best. We are incredibly proud of our team and the total rewards package we offer. We continue to look at meaningful ways to recognize and reward our extraordinary team for their contributions and achievements.” “This designation recognizes Renown Health’s commitment to supporting working parents with family-friendly policies and practices,” said Sandeep Randhawa, MS, Chief People Officer. “Our People-First culture supports the personal needs and well-being of Renown’s more than 7,500 exceptional physicians and associates. Our best-in-class talent management programs focus on hiring, training, and growing our professionals; ensuring that Renown’s values are reinforced with every strategic decision. We are incredibly proud of our team and the benefits we offer. We will continue to look for new benefits and conveniences to bring to our extraordinary team.”  “The Best Place for Working Parents” is made up of community businesses that work to educate organizations on the importance of promoting family in the workplace. Renown was recognized for offering the following family-friendly benefits.  Expanded physical health, medical, prescription and dental benefits for full-time and part-time employees Flexible Spending Accounts Enhanced wellness and mental health support Appreciating and engaging employees Paid volunteer opportunities Everyday Amazing and Celebrate Amazing service milestone events Community and family event discounts Debt-free Financial Wellness program Emergency Financial Fund through Renown Health Foundation Educational assistance reimbursement, student loan repayment, continuing education Onsite Childcare Center Flexible schedules and locations Retirement Savings Plans and matches For more information or to join the Renown family, apply online at renown.org/careers. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated health care network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,500 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Renown Health Earns "Best Place for Working Parents" Designation

Donors, Orvis School of Nursing at University of Nevada, Reno and Renown Health create history by awarding tuition assistance to 29 nursing students and creating a future academic and career pipeline. The University of Nevada, Reno has officially begun its yearlong sesquicentennial celebration (October 2023 and through October 2024). Today, a celebration was held as donors, Renown Health and the University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing awarded 29 nursing students with tuition support as part of the Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership established with the Renown Health Foundation. The Practice Partnership is named in honor of the late Jerry Smith of the Nell J. Redfield Foundation and supported by a generous lead gift from the Redfield Foundation and Stephanie Kruse, owner of KPS3 and chair of the Renown Health Foundation Board as they work to create a sustainable nursing workforce in northern Nevada for years to come. Kruse made a generous planned gift to the Renown Health Foundation and the Renown Nursing Excellence Endowment Fund. This was the lead gift for the endowment, after a significant cash gift to the Nursing Education Fund last summer. Kruse of Reno was recently awarded the prestigious 2023 Trustee of the Year Award from the Nevada Hospital Association for her exceptional leadership; professional excellence; outstanding achievements; innovative accomplishments and extraordinary compassion in caring for the community. The Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership recipients receive funding for tuition, books, and nursing fees, along with a guaranteed career in nursing with Renown Health following graduation and license obtainment. Eligible University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing students, Nevada residents and those committed to working at Renown for at least three years post-graduation who are interested in applying for the tuition support can find the application in Canvas, University of Nevada’s learning management system. “Despite steady growth in the number of new nursing graduates from Nevada nursing programs and registered nurses moving to Nevada from other states, our state is in need of additional registered nurses simply to meet the increased population growth and demand,” noted Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health. “The daughter of a nurse and a former nurse herself, Stephanie understands the importance of attracting and retaining nurses within our healthcare systems. Stephanie has made a significant and lasting contribution by helping to train and grow the next generation of nurses and we so appreciate her service, and her many contributions to Renown and our community.” "Since our University first welcomed students to classes in 1874, the institution has been a place where dreams can be realized for the good of all. We are incredibly grateful for the Gerald ‘Jerry’ Smith Nursing Academic-Practice Partnership,” Brian Sandoval, President, University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) said. “The tuition support not only impact the lives and dreams of the nursing students being honored today, but positively influences the overall health of our community by ensuring that excellent healthcare professionals stay right here in northern Nevada.” “Jerry Smith had a strong belief in community collaboration, and we are beyond proud that this partnership is named in his memory. He would be thrilled to see the impact these gifts are having on these nursing students today,” said Greg Walaitis, Chief Development Officer for Renown Health Foundation. “Stepanie Kruse works tirelessly to improve access to better health and human services, and she is now encouraging others to join the fight by donating to the Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership fund at Renown to help fund additional tuition assistance and support nurse education for our state. Her goal is to be able to provide full support to each of the 192 students in the Orvis School of Nursing program each year.” According to a white paper published by the Nevada Health Workforce Research Center (the Center) in December 2022, analysis by the Center revealed persistent, widespread health professional shortages in Nevada. Despite steady growth in the number of new nursing graduates from Nevada nursing programs and registered nurses moving to Nevada from other states, the Center estimated that Nevada currently needs over four thousand additional registered nurses simply to meet the national population-to-RN average. The partnership allows the Orvis School of Nursing to expand its graduating classes by 8 additional students a year. “At Renown, we take pride in placing an emphasis on education and career development. Partnering with the Orvis School of Nursing to create an academic pipeline is imperative for addressing the nursing shortage in Nevada,” said Melodie Osborn, Chief Nurse Executive at Renown Health. “Renown Health and the Orvis School of Nursing’s collaboration has been longstanding, and accomplishing this milestone reaffirms our partnership and our long legacy that both organizations have to nursing and education.” In addition to announcing the Practice Partnership, the Orvis School of Nursing has merged the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. This merger has expanded the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program from 72 students to 96 students admitted twice per year. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program now admits a total of 192 students in the program each year. “We are excited to be accepting our first class of Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership nursing students and to be increasing the number of nursing students who can enroll in the Orvis School of Nursing’s BSN program,” said Cameron G. Duncan, Interim Dean of the Orvis School of Nursing. “It’s integral for nursing students to get hands-on experience in an environment that places an emphasis on quality and excellence, which is why we’re proud to collaborate with Renown Health. We are so appreciative of Stephanie and the generous donors who will make education possible for students who might otherwise not be able to pursue a career in nursing.” Founded in 1864, Washoe County Hospital (which later became Renown Health) was the first hospital to open after Nevada became a state and is now the state’s largest not-for-profit healthcare organization and #1 hospital in Nevada (US News & World Report). Founded in 1956, the Orvis School of Nursing (OSN) is the oldest school of nursing in the state and committed to serving the healthcare needs of the people of Nevada through excellence in teaching, research, and service. In 2021, Renown Health affiliated with the University of Nevada Reno, School of Medicine creating the state’s first integrated health system. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 associates, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently hiring great physicians, nurses and associates for careers in service; apply at renown.org/careers and volunteers to assist patients and their families at renown.org/about/volunteers. About University of Nevada, Reno The University of Nevada, Reno, is a public research university that is committed to the promise of a future powered by knowledge. Nevada’s land-grant university founded in 1874, the University serves 21,000 students. The University is a comprehensive, doctoral university, classified as an R1 institution with very high research activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Additionally, it has attained the prestigious “Carnegie Engaged” classification, reflecting its student and institutional impact on civic engagement and service, fostered by extensive community and statewide collaborations. More than $800 million in advanced labs, residence halls and facilities has been invested on campus since 2009. It is home to the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, and Wolf Pack Athletics, maintains a statewide outreach mission and presence through programs such as the University of Nevada, Reno Extension, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Small Business Development Center, Nevada Seismological Laboratory, and is part of the Nevada System of Higher Education. Through a commitment to world-improving research, student success and outreach benefiting the communities and businesses of Nevada, the University has impact across the state and around the world. For more information, visit unr.edu.

Read More About Celebrating More Than 150 Years of Nursing, First Nevada Hospital and Nursing School Award First Jerry Smith Student Tuition Support

Becker’s annual list of Chief Nursing Officers to Know list for 2023 has been published, recognizing professional nurse healthcare leaders across the country. Melodie Osborn, MBA, BSN, RN, NEA-BC of Renown Health, Reno’s only not-for-profit, charitable health care organization, is one of the 153 professional nursing leaders nationally to be listed, and one of two from Nevada. “These leaders bring a unique blend of clinical and leadership experience to their roles. These nursing healthcare leaders have navigated their hospitals and health systems through the COVID-19 pandemic, and are now addressing staffing shortages, managing labor budgets, and creating professional pathways for the next generation of nurses,” Becker’s stated. In their announcement, Becker’s highlighted that Melodie Osborn, MBA, BSN, RN Chief Nurse Executive for Renown Health (Reno, Nev.), oversees nursing and seamless care across Nevada’s largest not-for-profit integrated delivery system. In 2023, she worked with donors and University of Nevada, Reno, to create an academic pipeline to address the nursing shortage via full-ride scholarship funding for up to 24 nursing students each year. Scholarship recipients may also complete a paid apprenticeship at Renown with a guaranteed hospital job following graduation and licensure. In 2020, Ms. Osborn volunteered to lead Renown’s COVID-19 vaccine effort and helped personally vaccinate over 50,000 community members. She is past president of Nevada Organization for Nurse Leaders. Under her leadership, Renown’s ICUs are three-time AACN Beacon Award winners for demonstrating excellence in patient care, healthy work environment and ongoing and evidence-based care.” “We are so pleased that Melodie has been nationally recognized for her stellar leadership, said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO for Renown Health. “Over the last twelve years, she has built high-performing teams and created a supportive environment that enhances patient-centered care. Melodie has an incredible work ethic, strong principles and has worked to achieve a consistently high standard of nursing practice across Renown Health. Melodie takes her responsibility as the executive nursing voice for more than 2,700 nurses very seriously. Her dedication to improving health and care has inspired teams to work together to achieve significant results that have benefited many. Melodie is the definition of a dedicated and committed leader and is well deserving of this recognition. We are very proud of her accomplishments and thank her for her exceptional leadership.” Melodie Osborn is a member of the executive leadership team at Renown Health. Renown Health earned Forbes' Best Healthcare Employer in Nevada for combatting burnout and ensuring well-being and safety of caregivers. Renown Health is hiring exceptional nurses and offers a culture of dignity and respect with opportunities for flexibility and growth. As a national health leader, Renown provides access to state-of-the-art technologies, advanced facilities, and integrated patient systems. For more information, visit renown.org/careers.

Read More About Reno Home to CNO to Know: Chief Nurse Executive Melodie Osborn, Named to Becker’s National List

The longstanding partnership between the University of Nevada, Reno and Renown Health reaches a new milestone with newly established scholarship program. Today, Renown Health and the University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing announced a milestone in the longstanding partnership and a new fund to provide nursing students with full-ride scholarships, and in turn, assist in creating a sustainable nursing workforce in northern Nevada for years to come. The Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership established with Renown Health Foundation will provide funding for up to 24 students a year.  Recipients receive funding for tuition, books and nursing fees, along with a guaranteed career in nursing with Renown Health following graduation and license obtainment. The Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic Practice Partnership will additionally give recipients the opportunity to complete an apprenticeship at Renown. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must be in good standing at the University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing; Nevada residents; and committed to working at Renown for at least three years post-graduation. The Practice Partnership has been established by the Gerald Smith family and initiated by Stephanie Kruse, Renown Health Foundation board chair. Kruse made a generous planned gift to Renown Health Foundation to the Renown Nursing Excellence Endowment Fund. This was the lead gift for the endowment, after a significant cash gift to the Nursing Education Fund last summer. The daughter of a nurse, and a retired nurse herself, she understands the importance of attracting and retaining nurses within our healthcare system, and so she decided to honor the memory of her mother and provide funding for others interested in nursing.  “We are incredibly grateful for the generous donors who have helped establish the Gerald ‘Jerry’ Smith Nursing Academic-Practice Partnership. These funds will not only impact the lives of the awarded nursing students, but positively influence the overall health of our community by ensuring that excellent healthcare professionals stay right here in northern Nevada. Jerry had a strong belief in community collaboration, and we are beyond proud to name this partnership in his honor,” said Greg Walaitis, Chief Development Officer for Renown Health Foundation.  According to a white paper published by the Nevada Health Workforce Research Center (the Center) in December 2022, analysis by the Center revealed persistent, widespread health professional shortages in Nevada. Despite steady growth in the number of new nursing graduates from Nevada nursing programs and registered nurses moving to Nevada from other states, the Center estimated that Nevada currently needs over four thousand additional registered nurses simply to meet the national population-to-RN average. The partnership allows the Orvis School of Nursing to expand its graduating classes by 8 additional students a year.  “At Renown, we take pride in placing an emphasis on education and career development. Partnering with the Orvis School of Nursing to create an academic pipeline is imperative for addressing the nursing shortage in Nevada,” said Melodie Osborn, Chief Nurse Executive at Renown Health. “Renown Health and the Orvis School of Nursing’s collaboration has been longstanding, and accomplishing this milestone affirms our partnership.” In addition to announcing the Practice Partnership, the Orvis School of Nursing announced its merging of the Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. This merger will grow the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program from 72 students to 96 students admitted twice per year. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program will now admit a total of 192 students in the program each year. “We are so excited to increase the number of nursing students who can enroll in the Orvis School of Nursing’s BSN program,” said Cameron G. Duncan, Interim Dean of the Orvis School of Nursing. “It’s integral for nursing students to get hands-on experience in an environment that places an emphasis on quality and excellence, which is why we’re proud to collaborate with Renown. We are so appreciative of the generous donors who will make education possible for students who might otherwise not be able to pursue a career in nursing.” Eligible University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing students, Nevada residents and those committed to working at Renown for at least three years post-graduation who are interested in applying for the scholarship can find the application in Canvas, University of Nevada’s learning management system.  About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 associates, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently hiring great physicians, nurses and associates for careers in service; apply at renown.org/careers and volunteers to assist patients and their families at renown.org/about/volunteers.  About University of Nevada, Reno The University of Nevada, Reno, is a public research university that is committed to the promise of a future powered by knowledge. Nevada’s land-grant university founded in 1874, the University serves 21,000 students. The University is a comprehensive, doctoral university, classified as an R1 institution with very high research activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Additionally, it has attained the prestigious “Carnegie Engaged” classification, reflecting its student and institutional impact on civic engagement and service, fostered by extensive community and statewide collaborations. More than $800 million in advanced labs, residence halls and facilities has been invested on campus since 2009. It is home to the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and Wolf Pack Athletics, maintains a statewide outreach mission and presence through programs such as the University of Nevada, Reno Extension, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Small Business Development Center, Nevada Seismological Laboratory, and is part of the Nevada System of Higher Education. Through a commitment to world-improving research, student success and outreach benefiting the communities and businesses of Nevada, the University has impact across the state and around the world. For more information, visit unr.edu.

Read More About Renown Health and Orvis School of Nursing Announce Academic Partnership Program & Academic Pipeline for Nursing Students

Renown Children’s Hospital and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMNH) are excited to announce Shaylie Edwards as the 2023 Champion Child. A fighter from a young age, seven-year-old Shaylie has overcome many challenges in her short life. In 2019 when she was three, Shaylie was hit by a car while using a crosswalk with her father. She was admitted to the Wilbur D. May Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at Renown Children’s Hospital and stayed there for three months. A video introducing Shaylie and her journey can be found here.  Shaylie’s mom, Erica Edwards reports that as a result of the accident, Shaylie has been treated by Renown Children’s Hospital physicians, nurses and team for a broken neck in two places, a broken jaw in two places, a fractured sacrum, a broken femur and three small brain bleeds. She has been in outpatient therapy for the last three years and continues making strides daily. “Shaylie’s perseverance, dedication and joy inspires all of us at Renown Children’s Hospital,” said Kristina Deeter, MD, MBA, FAAP Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children’s Hospital and Chair of Pediatrics, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine,” (pictured right with Shaylie). “It has been an incredible joy to witness her progress and to care for Shaylie and her family. We are thrilled she has been chosen to share her story with the world.”  The New England Journal of Medicine cites preventable injuries as the number one leading cause of death among children. This includes motor vehicle accidents, firearm injuries, drowning, poisoning, burns and suffocation. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, an average of 155 children under the age of 10 die every year as a result of pedestrian injury, with 64% of those involving motor vehicles. Across the U.S., due to distracted driving, a pedestrian is killed every two hours and injured every seven minutes. Most drivers feel they can safely take their eyes off the road for 0-2 seconds, but a car can travel the length of a football field in 5 seconds at 55 MPH. Shaylie’s family and the team at Renown Children’s Hospital urge drivers to be fully aware and eliminate distractions while driving.  “We were in the Wilbur D. May PICU for three months and the first five days were very iffy. We did not know if she would come out of her coma, but Shaylie is a fighter. The care team at Renown Children’s Hospital made me feel at home and like we were all going through this together,” said Shaylie’s mother, Erica Edwards. “Shaylie’s recovery was a collaboration between doctors, nurses, and our family. Together we were there to support Shaylie, who has proven to us repeatedly that she has a greater purpose in life.” “It was heartwarming to meet Shaylie and her family,” said Dr. Brian Erling, MBA, CEO of Renown Health. “Shaylie is truly a champion! She and her family have faced life's unanticipated events with strength and resilience. Despite the struggles, they have carried on with hope and determination. They find joy in life every day and inspire us all. We have much to learn from their example.” Through Renown Children’s Hospital, Shaylie and 100,000 area children now have access to more than 60 pediatricians, including those specializing in adolescent medicine; anesthesia; cardiology; craniofacial surgery; dentistry; ear, nose and throat conditions; emergency medicine; endocrinology; gastroenterology;  general pediatrics; hospitalist medicine; intensive care; neonatology; neurology; oncology; ophthalmology;  orthopedics; psychiatry; psychology; pulmonology; surgery; urology and other subspecialties previously lacking in the community, as well as a pediatric emergency room, pediatric ICU and contemporary healthcare services at Renown Children’s Hospital. Prior to 2016, about 30% of all pediatric patients had to leave northern Nevada to receive the specialty care they needed. Now, thanks to donor support, Renown estimates that 97% of all pediatric patients and their families can receive both general and specialty pediatric care locally. The next nearest children’s hospital in the state is 7 hours or 438 miles away in Las Vegas. Renown Children’s Hospital is proud to be the only CMNH hospital in northern Nevada, one of only 170 premier children’s hospitals in North America. Shaylie will serve as Renown Children’s Hospital’s CMNH Champion Child for the next year, shining as the face of the hospital in the community and sharing her inspiring story. Renown Health Foundation oversees the local CMNH programs and its fundraising. One hundred percent of all funds raised by CMNH partners stay local to support children and families in our community. Your generous support affords much-needed items to help our littlest patients cope with the potential stressors associated with hospitalization and illness. To donate, visit www.renown.org/donate. About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada’s largest, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is hiring people like you. Visit us at www.renown.org/careers.  About Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® raises funds and awareness for 170 member hospitals that provide 32 million treatments each year to kids across the U.S. and Canada. Donations stay local to fund critical treatments and healthcare services, pediatric medical equipment, and charitable care. Since 1983, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals has raised more than $7 billion, most of it $1 at a time through the charity's Miracle Balloon icon. Its various fundraising partners and programs support the nonprofit's mission to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible. Find out why children's hospitals need community support, and learn about your member hospital, at www.renown.org/CMNH.

Read More About Renown Children's Hospital Announces 2023 Children's Miracle Network Champion Child

Nevada’s #1 ranked hospital system announces plan to hire 500 more physicians, nurses, clinicians for region In recognition of Valentine’s Day, Renown Health today announced a national physician, nurse, and clinical specialist recruitment campaign to help fill positions and expand access to community-based primary and specialty care across northern Nevada.   Over the last year, consumer demand for Renown physicians, providers and services has increased significantly. At the same time, the nationwide physician and nursing shortage that experts predicted has arrived. As a result, in an innovative partnership with over 7,000 employees, the health care system has launched a national recruitment campaign to ensure staffing to meet the needs of a growing patient base and community.     The new recruitment campaign, Fight for You, uses the tag line “Every day, we fight like you. Every day, we fight for you,” to appeal to clinicians and employees devoted to the not-for-profit healthcare system’s mission; to make a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities.” Watch the video here.    “We honor and celebrate every one of our 7250 employees,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health, “and have launched this campaign to recruit 500 more dedicated and committed clinicians to care for our patients. Our transformation as a health system demands that we invest in our employees to meet the current healthcare needs of our community. Fight for You is a vibrant campaign that will attract those drawn to Renown’s mission of caring for one and all.”    The campaign is supported by social media promotion on Google, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. Compelling videos are being promoted on the health system’s website, social media accounts, and used at recruitment events to showcase the diverse faces of the Renown team. All open positions are listed on Renown.org/careers.  In terms of retaining current employees, Renown Health announced that starting April 1, 2023, they are expanding the 401(k)-retirement plan match based for Renown employees based on an employee’s seniority date. Under this expanded benefit, Renown will continue to invest 4% for employees who participate and have up to 4 years of benefit eligible service. And, for those employees with 5 to 9 years of service, Renown will match your contributions at 5% of your pay, 6% for those at 10-14 years, 7% for 15-19 years - and so on, up to 9% for those who have been at Renown for 25 years or more.    In addition, to support all employees in furthering their education, Renown is increasing educational reimbursement for full and part time employees to the IRS tax free maximum of $5250 and expanding the benefit to per diem employees in the amount of $2625. Per diem employees must meet the per diem requirements to be eligible for reimbursement.      “I am proud of the thousands of physicians, nurses and caregivers who provide exemplary, compassionate care, every day, to Nevadans in need,” said Melodie Osborn, RN, Chief Nurse Executive, Renown Health. “This campaign is about connecting people with a passion for healing and Renown’s mission, vision, and values of caring for the people who live here. Northern Nevada and Lake Tahoe are among the most beautiful places to live and work. We hope our campaign encourages others to consider growing and working for the #1 rated hospital in Nevada.”   As the region’s only Level 2 Trauma Center, Renown serves over 1 million people and 100,000 square miles. Nevada is one of the fastest growing states in the US and the population of Washoe County grew by over 50,000 people between 2010 and 2019, to a population of 471,519.  In U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital Rankings, Renown Regional Medical Center is named #1 in the State of Nevada for 2021. No other hospital in Nevada earned recognition from U.S. News.  About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada’s largest, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. To join the Renown Health team visit www.renown.org/careers.

Read More About More Doctors and Nurses to Serve You! Renown Shares the Love, Investing in Care for Community

Meet Eleazar, the first baby born in the Reno-Sparks area in 2023 Reno's first baby of 2023 was born in the Labor and Delivery Childbirth Center at Renown Regional Medical Center. Gricella Grajeda gave birth to Eleazar Grajeda at 1:05 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. Baby Eleazar weighed 5 pounds, 3.4 ounces and was the first 2023 birth at any of the region's hospitals. Baby Eleazar is also welcomed to the world by Yesinia Valazquez. More than 4,040 babies were delivered at Renown Health in 2022. Renown Health offers exceptional family-centered care with complete prenatal services designed for the health and well-being of every patient and their new baby. About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada’s largest, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 6,500 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in a community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®

Read More About Renown Welcome Area's First Baby of 2023

Students ages 16 and older can now submit applications for entry-level, non-clinical opportunities at region’s top employer and one of the nation’s Top Places to Work ® Obtaining a career in healthcare has been the goal of many who seek to make a positive difference in the lives of others and improve the health of their communities. Overall employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow 13 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations; and this increase is expected to result in about 2 million new jobs over the decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Today, Renown Health leaders announced they are accepting employment applications for individuals 16 years old to work in entry-level, non-clinical roles; formerly teens needed to be 18 years or older to apply for employment at Nevada’s largest not-for-profit health network. “Many of us who work today as physicians, nurses and key members of the healthcare team, started out as teenagers working or volunteering in our local hospitals,” says Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO, Renown Health. “Supporting local teens with their first jobs in healthcare, and providing support for life-long careers, helps build the workforce of the future. We are excited to welcome the next generation of Renown employees as they partner with us to care for our community and Fight the Good Fight.” “For more than 160 years, the foundation of our success has been to hire the brightest and most compassionate people,” says Brittany Brown, MBA, Director of Recruitment. High school students curious about a career in healthcare are encouraged to apply to one of the many entry-level, non-clinical positions available now at Renown Health. All entry-level positions offer flexible schedules to account for school schedules. Named Ragan’s “Top Places to Work for 2022,” Renown Health fosters a caring culture of values that include caring, integrity, collaboration and excellence. Renown was awarded for championing their workforce and providing guidance, initiatives and resources that promote a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace, offering ample room for professional growth and providing effective communication that keeps employees engaged and informed. “Renown Health is rising to the occasion by expanding employment opportunities for high school students,” said Ms. Brown. “We hope to help teens develop career skills that will serve them today, and for a successful future.” The decision to lower Renown’s minimum employment age to 16 was rooted in the health system’s desire to support students in their long-term career goals and foster their interest in healthcare. Renown’s expert recruiters are poised to welcome teen applicants and be a resource for them throughout the hiring process. Along with offering education and career growth opportunities, Renown has extensive employee benefits available to full time and part time employees. Open part-time and per diem positions available for students who meet the new minimum age requirement of include, but are not limited to: Patient Access Representatives Patient Safety Assistants Patient Transporters Dishwashers Food Service Workers Housekeepers Renown Health also recognizes the value of experienced workers and believes in equal opportunities for all. Part-time, full-time and flexible positions are also available for people 55+ and retirees. Individuals may apply directly at renown.org/careers. Renown Health ensures equal employment opportunity without discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information, see our non-discrimination policy at renown.org. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®.

Read More About Renown Health Lowers Minimum Employment Age To 16 Years Old

Max Coppes, M.D., Ph.D., MBA who has served as Nell J. Redfield Chair of Pediatrics at the University of Nevada School of Medicine (UNR Med) and pediatrician-in-chief at Renown Children’s Hospital for the last six years has announced he is stepping down to lead Renown’s Pennington Cancer Institute on a full-time basis. Dr. Coppes will continue to serve as Professor of Pediatrics and Internal Medicine at UNR Med. “Our goal is to improve the health of Nevadans and reduce the burden of cancer,” said Thomas Graf, CEO of Renown Health. “Having Dr. Coppes as our clinical leader for the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute on a full-time basis reflects Renown and UNR Med’s commitment to increase access to cancer care, foster a deeper partnership with UNR Med on clinical trials, collaborate on cancer research opportunities, and enhance medical education and post-graduate training. We are thrilled to have Dr. Max leading this important effort.” Today’s announcement comes two weeks after the William N. Pennington Foundation announced a $15.5 million gift to the Renown Health Foundation to help establish the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown. Dr. Coppes, a pediatric oncologist by training, has experience in leading large-scale, nationally recognized academic cancer center teams in both the U.S. and Canada. Dr. Coppes came to Reno in 2014 from the British Columbia Cancer Agency in Vancouver, where he served as president with responsibility for six regional cancer centers and two cancer research centers. He was an attending physician at BC Children's Hospital and a professor of Medicine and Pediatrics at the University of British Columbia. During his career, Coppes served as senior vice president at Children's National Medical Center in Washington, D.C. and held positions at several prestigious facilities in the U.S. and Canada including The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto, Georgetown University, The National Cancer Institute, and the Cleveland Clinic. Since 2016, Dr. Coppes has served in the joint leadership role as the Nell J. Redfield Chair of Pediatrics at UNR Med and pediatrician-in-chief at Renown Children's Hospital, a position made possible through generous philanthropic support from the Nell J. Redfield Foundation along with investments by Renown Health and the School of Medicine. In 2016, the Pennington Foundation recognized the need for enhanced care and expertise for pediatrics and donated $7.5 million to Renown Children’s Hospital to establish the William N. Pennington Fund for Advanced Pediatric Care. “As the Nell J. Redfield Chair of Pediatrics at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and pediatrician-in-chief at Renown Children's Hospital, Dr. Coppes blazed the trail for the integration of academic and clinical missions at UNR Med and Renown. He demonstrated visionary leadership and undoubtedly will bring the same energy and vision as the clinical leader for the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute,” said Melissa Piasecki, Acting Dean of UNR Med and Chief Academic Officer for Renown Health. “Dr. Max Coppes is an extraordinary leader. In the last six years he has done much to elevate the standard of pediatric care available in our community,” said Sy Johnson, President and Chief of Staff of Renown. “Thanks to Dr. Coppes’ leadership, the generosity of the Pennington gift and other donors, 100,000 area children now have access to pediatric specialists and contemporary healthcare services at the region’s only children’s hospital. Now, less than 3% of all pediatric patients and their families need to leave the area for specialty care. That is an incredible accomplishment.” Significant achievements made under Dr. Coppes leadership include: Advancing Renown Children’s Hospital, the only dedicated children’s hospital in northern Nevada, offering programs and services for families from a 100,000 square mile area, from Sacramento, CA to Salt Lake City, Utah. Renown Children’s provides the area’s only Children’s Emergency Room, Pediatric ICU (PICU), children’s imaging center and the largest neonatal ICU (NICU), a level III intensive care unit. Under his leadership, the following service lines were established; adolescent medicine, pediatric hematology/oncology, pediatric nephrology, pediatric infectious diseases, pediatric ophthalmology, pediatric orthopedic surgery, pediatric cleft and craniofacial surgery, pediatric urology, pediatric dentistry, and pediatric emergency medicine. Hiring and supporting a team of over 40 pediatric physician specialists. These clinicians provide 30,000 patient visits annually, offering an exceptional level of care to help families. As a testimony to the community’s confidence in the care provided, market share for pediatric services at Renown Health is now close to 90%. Renown’s membership in the Children’s Oncology Group (COG), which gives local pediatric cancer patients access to the world’s largest organization devoted exclusively to childhood cancer and most leading-edge treatments. Application to establish a 3-year accredited (by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) pediatric residency program in Reno. If approved in September 2022, Renown Health and UNR Med will start training four new pediatricians each year starting in July 2023. Successful application to the Nevada Governor's Office of Science, Innovation & Technology to receive financial support to fund a new Graduate Medical Education program. Renown Children’s Hospital was awarded $ 870,433 for the new pediatric residency program. New construction of an expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with increased capacity to 49 bassinets, an expanded Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) with increased capacity to 16 private patient and family rooms, and a new Renown Children's Hospital in-patient floor with increased capacity for 38 private patient and family rooms for a total capacity of 58 pediatric beds on Level 4 of Renown Regional Medical Center. In 2021, Dr. Coppes was named the Healthcare Hero Community Partner by Northern Nevada Business Magazine.

Read More About Dr. Max Coppes to Lead William N. Pennington Institute

Pictured left to right: Erin VanKirk, MSN, RN, Renown Health Director of Nursing Education; Mitch Krebs, Program Director at Helmsley Charitable Trust; Dr. Graf, Renown Health CEO; Greg Walaitis Renown Health Chief Development Officer. Renown Health will use the grant to build the Helmsley Simulation and Innovation Center to improve the health system’s training abilities The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust has granted $3.1 million to Renown Health for construction of a new simulation and innovation center that will greatly expand the health system’s ability to train healthcare providers throughout northern Nevada. The new center will be named the Helmsley Simulation and Innovation Center. Expected to open in April 2023, the center will feature three simulated patient rooms, classroom space, computer labs and a conference center, allowing trainers to run current and future healthcare professionals through real-life acute, outpatient, telemedicine and specialty care scenarios. The new center will let Renown Health train substantially more nurses, physicians, community clinical partners, medical students and rural providers while improving medical and nursing expertise to support staff throughout northern Nevada. “The Helmsley Charitable Trust is excited to fund this new simulation center, which will provide healthcare professionals across rural Nevada with state-of-the-art training in a variety of situations they’ll encounter,” said Walter Panzirer, a trustee of the Helmsley Charitable Trust. “The project fits with our goal to level the playing field by giving rural residents access to top-notch healthcare, regardless of their ZIP code.” “Simulation education has become standard practice for many of our healthcare personnel,” said Erin Van Kirk MSN, RN, Director of Nursing Education. “This lab will provide expanded opportunities in a controlled setting where physicians, nurses, and students can gain valuable experience in providing the best care possible.” Renown Health has outgrown its current simulation lab, which opened in 2016 in Renown Regional Medical Center. The new, larger, state-of-the-art simulation and innovation center will increase Renown Health’s training capacity from 1,500 to 2,500 each year. The new facility will be equipped with state-of-the-art simulation mannequins and other equipment that includes a telemetry monitor, IV and epidural equipment, a code cart, a defibrillator, a balloon pump, ventilators and a cooling machine. The center will also support Renown Health’s recently established partnership with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, expanding training modules focused on rural health and virtual care through telemedicine. “The facility will help Renown Health respond to our region’s growing population by allowing us to support the training and competency necessary for our care providers to make a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve,” said Melodie Osborn, RN, MBA, Chief Nursing Executive at Renown Health. “This generous grant for the new simulation and innovation center from the Helmsley Charitable Trust is truly an investment in the bright future we envision for Renown, our care teams and the community.” About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org. About the Helmsley Charitable Trust The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust aspires to improve lives by supporting exceptional efforts in the U.S. and around the world in health and select place-based initiatives. Since beginning active grantmaking in 2008, Helmsley has committed more than $3 billion for a wide range of charitable purposes. Helmsley’s Rural Healthcare Program funds innovative projects that use information technologies to connect rural patients to emergency medical care, bring the latest medical therapies to patients in remote areas, and provide state-of-the-art training for rural hospitals and EMS personnel. To date, this program has awarded more than $500 million to organizations and initiatives in the states of North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming, Minnesota, Iowa, Montana, and Nevada. For more information, visit helmsleytrust.org.

Read More About Helmsley Charitable Trust Grants $3.1 Million to Renown Health